Radon…Is This A Real Thing?
You can’t see it, you can’t smell it, and you can’t feel it? Does Radon even exist or is Radon just another tactic to scare homeowners?
What is Radon?
Actually Radon is everywhere! It is the gaseous radioactive element from decaying rocks and soil. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that this is not only a real thing but they have also determined acceptable exposure levels for homeowners (up to 4pCi/L).
Levels can vary from home to home based on the soil chemistry at that location. Below is the EPA’s Radon zone map of Washington.
When is it Harmful?
Although we are exposed to low levels of Radon everyday from the outside air (Avg 0.4pCi/L), it can become harmful when it gets trapped in our closed home conditions and builds up. Radon will typically move through the ground to the air and into your home through cracks and holes in the foundation. Any home may have a Radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements
Who Does Radon Affect?
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United states. It is estimated to cause about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Smokers are at higher risk of developing Radon-induced lung cancer. Lung cancer would usually occur years (5-25) after being exposed to radon.
How Can You Mitigate Radon?
Now don’t worry, there are several proven methods to lower Radon levels in your home. Some techniques prevent radon from entering your home while others reduce the Radon levels after it has already entered your home. For example a Radon mitigation system can draw the Radon from the soil below the house and vent it through a pipe to the air above the house where it can quickly be diluted.
Radon reduction systems work and most homes can be mitigated for about the same cost as other common home repairs. Some radon reduction systems can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 99 percent.
Summary
Don’t be scared when you hear the word Radon. Know that it is real, it is everywhere, and it can be harmful. But it is also easily mitigated and removed from your home. If you have any doubt about the Radon levels in your home, have it tested to give you that little extra peace of mind.
More information can be found at https://www.epa.gov/radon.